Although the early spring weather, which prompted shoppers to buy shorts and T-shirts earlier than normal, was a help in March, Shapira said there were other factors at play, including a strong apparel trend toward colorful clothing, particularly denim, and the early timing of Easter.

"So we're seeing the sustainability of some current trends, and that's encouraging," Shapira said.

She added that until now there hasn't been a new fashion trend to drive consumers to stores in a long while. This trend not only helped Gap ( GPS) which has been struggling for some time, post a strong same-stores sales gain, but other retailers such as Target ( TGT), TJX ( TJX) and even Costco ( COST) are benefiting from consumers who are seeking out colorful new spring clothing.

"You might not love it, but you certainly don't have it," she said.

Until this point, consumers had focused on accessories to freshen up their wardrobes, but the spring's colorful style is very fashionable and more exciting for shoppers, who are tired of "boring fall colors," Shapira said.

Consumers also are in a better mood, according to Ron Friedman, head of the retail practice at Marcum, a national accounting firm.

"I think you have a couple of years of pent up demand," Friedman said. He expects the trend to not only benefit to apparel retailers but he also sees strong trends ahead of those who sell home furnishings. According to Friedman, consumers have spent the last few years whittling down their debt and they are feeling better about their financial situation, and that is what is giving them more confidence to fix up their homes, plant flower early, and buy new wardrobes.